Farmers markets see more food stamp purchases

Farmers markets in Minnesota saw a jump in the use of food stamps this year.

Associated Press

Farmers markets in Minnesota saw a jump in the use of food stamps this year.

Nearly 60 farmers markets in Minnesota accept food stamps.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says $226,900 in food stamps were redeemed this year at those farmers markets or with farmers who sell directly to consumers. That's more than three times the $66,900 in food stamps that were redeemed in 2011.

Still, the spending of food stamps at farmers market represents less than 1 percent of total food stamp spending in the state.

Minnesota Public Radio News reports the growth is part of a national trend toward making fresh food more accessible to millions of people on food assistance.

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